As the only landlocked region in Chile, the Santiago Metropolitan Region may not have beaches, but it has many other attractions to keep travellers occupied. Go wine tasting and find adventure amid the towering peaks of its mountain ranges.
The capital city of Santiago is the first stop for most visitors to Chile. Sophisticated and a little eccentric, the city boasts excellent hotels, restaurants, museums and architecture. Stroll through the historic centre by day and enjoy the nightlife at sidewalk cafés and bars. Though the city is a bustling urban sprawl, its surroundings are majestic. On a clear day, enjoy views across the plains to snow-covered mountain peaks.
Spreading out around the city is Alto Maipo. With its Mediterranean climate, it is widely considered to be one of Chile's most prestigious wine-producing areas. Join an organised tour of the vineyards and wineries.
Just outside Santiago, Pirque is often called the wine capital of Chile and is famous for being home to the country’s biggest and most industrial wine producer, Viña Concha y Toro. Order grilled meat and seafood at one of the town’s many restaurants, where dinner is often followed by Chilean music and dancing.
If you are looking for a more adventurous activity, leave the city and head for the ski resorts of El Colorado, La Parva and Valle Nevado. All of these resorts have slopes to suit all ability levels.
Further out, discover the natural beauty of the Cajón del Maipo, a rocky canyon winding through Andean foothills and slopes, where you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking and other activities. There are also plenty of challenging mountains to climb, such as the towering Mirador del Morado. Arrange ascents with local guides and tour companies.
Go horse riding and mountain climbing in the nearby El Morado nature reserve, an area of more than 7,400-acres (3,000 hectares) with mountains boasting stunning views of the Andes and rare flora and fauna.
Arrive here via Arturo Merino Benítez International Airport in Santiago, which has an efficient public transportation network. If you plan on heading farther afield, use buses and coaches or rent a car.
